Supporting families of dying patients in the intensive care units

Holist Nurs Pract. 2014 Sep-Oct;28(5):316-22. doi: 10.1097/HNP.0000000000000045.

Abstract

Family support in the intensive care units is a challenge for nurses who take care of dying patients. This article aimed to determine the Iranian nurses' experience of supporting families in end-of-life care. Using grounded theory methodology, 23 critical care nurses were interviewed. The theme of family support was extracted and divided into 5 categories: death with dignity; facilitate visitation; value orientation; preparing; and distress. With implementation of family support approaches, family-centered care plans will be realized in the standard framework.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Attitude to Death*
  • Family
  • Humans
  • Intensive Care Units*
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Iran
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / psychology*
  • Professional-Family Relations*
  • Social Support
  • Terminal Care / psychology*